As the seasons change, Fidelity ADT is urging homeowners and businesses to take proactive steps to prevent a common seasonal nuisance: false alarms.

“While seasonal transitions bring weather shifts and changes in daily routines, they also bring a noticeable spike in false alarm triggers,” says Charnel Hattingh, Head of Marketing and Communications at Fidelity Services Group.

“These incidents don’t just cause unnecessary concern for property owners; they also place additional pressure on emergency response resources and may result in costly penalties for repeat offenders.”

What triggers seasonal false alarms?

Seasonal changes can impact security systems in several ways:

• Temperature changes and drafts
  Fluctuating temperatures and changing environmental conditions can affect the performance of certain alarm sensors and CCTV cameras. Rapid shifts between cold mornings and warmer afternoons may influence detector sensitivity and increase the likelihood of false activations.
• Ageing systems and batteries
  Old or failing backup batteries may not provide sufficient power during outages, resulting in trouble signals, communication failures, or unexpected alarm activations. Regular battery testing and replacement are essential to ensure reliable system performance throughout the year.
• Storms and power fluctuations
  Seasonal storms often bring strong winds, heavy rainfall, and power surges. High winds can impact outdoor beams, CCTV cameras, electric fencing, and even cause movement in doors and windows. Power fluctuations and surges may also trigger faults in older or poorly maintained alarm systems.
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The power of preventative maintenance

“The most effective way to reduce seasonal false alarms is through regular system maintenance,” says Hattingh.

“Just as you would service your vehicle to keep it running efficiently, your security system requires routine inspections to ensure it continues to perform optimally despite changing environmental conditions.”

Regular maintenance helps ensure that:

• Backup batteries are tested and replaced when necessary
• Sensors remain free of dust, dirt, and cobwebs
• Door and window contacts stay correctly aligned
• CCTV cameras and outdoor detection devices function properly
• Communication systems remain operational and reliable.
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Property owners should also assess the physical environment around their homes or businesses. Overgrown trees, shrubs, and vegetation can obstruct outdoor motion detectors, interfere with security equipment, and contribute to unnecessary alarm activations.

A simple inspection of the garden and perimeter areas can help identify potential issues before they become a problem.

Fidelity ADT recommends testing security systems monthly in coordination with the monitoring centre and scheduling a professional security audit at least once a year.

By investing in preventative maintenance, property owners can reduce false alarms, improve system reliability, and ensure their security solutions continue to provide effective protection throughout every season.

Issued by Fidelity Services Group – charnelh@fidelity-services.com